My Collection of Essays from Different Writers

# 67 Rizal's graduation as physician -- Received congratulations -- Brilliant examination at the Universidad Central

Madrid, 28 June 1884

My Dear Parents and Brothers,

     After so long a time that I haven't been able to write you a letter on account of my numerous tasks, I now write you with eagerness to give you news about me to which I suppose you'll not be at all indifferent. It is a little less than two months that I haven't written you and this time has seemed to me very long, so much so that many times I have asked myself if I was not failing in my duty by not writing you in order not to set aside my studies. Moreover, I don't believe it will ever occur to you to think that my affection has cooled. I have sufficient reasons and moreover, as I'm alone, I have no one to write for me while I study. Now that I'm freer, I reiterate that I have great satisfaction in taking up the pen. I don't know if my sentiments find an echo in other parts. At last I'm a physician. Two or three friends embraced me effusively with genuine brotherly joy. L One friend wrote me also wishing me with all his heart good luck in the practice of my profession. I distributed three duros -- which I borrowed from one of these friends -- among the beadles of San Carlos who congratulated all students. This was all the celebration of the greatest event in my student life and to think that was for me the most eventful month. I shall enumerate them in order.

      On 5th June I took the examination in medical clinic 2nd course Bueno (Good);

     On the 6th clinical surgery, 2nd course Notable (Very good);

     On the 9th I filed my application for the degree;

     On the 11th I took my examination in Greek, 1st course, Sobresaliente (Excellent);

     On the 19th (my birthday) I was notified of the graduation exercises;

      On the 20th first exercises;

     On the 21st the second and last exercises for graduation Aprobado (Passed);

     On the 25 I won the first prize in Greek...